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When life is really tough, should we consider it a sign that God wants us to move on? If we’re offered a better paying job, is that an indication that God is leading us away from our current situation? Maybe; maybe not. In this message, Chip lays out four steps to follow when considering a change of scenery.

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With rising prices and an uncertain economy often in the news, it’s easy for families to feel stressed about money. In fact, after surveying nearly 4,000 women, Crystal Paine discovered that nearly all of them admitted to having some level of fear about their money or financial future. Crystal is no stranger to this stress. Early in her marriage to Jesse, they struggled to pay the bills after job opportunities fell through, leaving them scrabbling to provide for themselves and their two young kids. Through careful money habits and decisions, they moved from scraping by to thriving, establishing foundational habits that helped them from those early days until now. In this interview, she will help listeners with practical advice for getting a handle on their money, such as decide on financial priorities, predetermine spending, create accountability and stop paying full price.

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Thriving in Love and Money -- Money is a leading source of conflict for many couples, but it doesn’t have to be. Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn help couples uncover the issues behind financial disagreements and develop a more unified approach to managing money together.

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You can love your kids, provide for them, and still lose their respect. Here's what every father needs to hear.

Sermon Overview
Scripture Passage: 1 Peter 3:13-16

In the 1st Century, Christians were accused of subversion, of being an economic threat, and of condemning others. Their accounts are a clear warning of the days ahead for Christians of the 21st Century. In 1 Peter, we are instructed to be real, to be ready, and to be bright lights in a dark world.

1 Peter 3:13-14 says, “And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed…”

There are six things we need to remember if we want to shine in these dark days.

First, we must enthrone Christ as Lord: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts…” (1 Peter 3:15). Often we hear people say they’ve accepted Jesus as their Savior, but we cannot have what He gives unless we accept Him as Lord. Adrian Rogers says, “You’re not saved by the plan of salvation; you’re saved by the man of salvation and His name is Jesus.”

Second, we must be ready with an answer: “...always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you...” (1 Peter 3:15). If we have truly been saved, there will be something about us that is unexplainable; we must be ready to give a defense for our faith.

Third, we must practice genuine humility: “...with meekness and fear…” (1 Peter 3:15). Meekness is not weakness, it is strength under control. In this context, fear is not trembling at what is happening around us; it speaks of holy reverence for Almighty God.

We must also live a superior lifestyle: “...having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed” (1 Peter 3:16). We are called to be wise in our conduct and speech. We must also display genuine love. Our logic and our lifestyle have to go together—a full mind wedded with a loving heart.

Finally, we must always hold onto hope; Jesus has met the deepest needs of our hearts, therefore we have hope.

Apply it to your life
These are the greatest days of evangelism in the history of the Christian church. In light of the current climate of this world, we should go out with banners unfurled and be bright lights in a dark world.

How can you be sure that what you believe about your salvation is right, that you’re not buying into some myth, or even following a false religion? Consider that with John MacArthur as he continues a look at Old Testament examples of genuine faith—examples that can help you know if you have A Faith That Pleases God.

Jen Babakhan experienced the painful journey of navigating her mom’s terminal illness — and found God’s comfort and peace along the way. She offers practical and godly insights about discovering joy in sorrow, helping children deal with grief, and anticipating a glorious reunion in Heaven!

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A Godly Perspective on End of Life Decisions -- Find comfort, wisdom, and biblical guidance in this free 7-part series. You'll learn biblical principles for end-of-life care, how to navigate difficult medical decisions, and how to experience God's peace when it's time to say goodbye.

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Do you have a story or comment on how Focus on the Family impacted you or your family? Leave a message for Jim Daly!

If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.